About DigiTrain

VET students in remote and rural areas need access to real-life education opportunities to become competent in their chosen fields. Our vision is to develop a digital mentoring and traineeship program that will provide these students with the chance to participate in the real business world. Through this program, they will gain invaluable experience and skills that will serve them well in their future careers. We believe this is essential in ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed. We urge you to support our vision and help us make this program a reality. Thank you for your time and consideration.

DigiTrain News & Helpful Articles

Welcome to the News section of the Digitrain Project. This is where we share the latest updates, progress, and milestones from our ongoing efforts to bring digital mentorship to Vocational Education and Training (VET) schools in rural areas.

Our mission is to empower these schools and their students through technology, and we need to keep our community informed and engaged. You'll find everything from announcements about new partnerships and funding to stories of our virtual mentorship sessions and their impact on students.

Each update provides insight into the strides we are making to reduce educational disparity and bring equal opportunities to all, regardless of geographical location. Our commitment to transparency and engagement drives us to update this space regularly.

We invite you to follow our journey as we leverage digital media to redefine educational experiences.

The innovative educational project “Digital Mentoring and ​Traineeship” successfully completed its final event

On February 23, 2024, at “Angel Kunchev” University of Ruse, ​Rousse Industrial Association held a final conference under ​project number 2021-1-ES01-KA220-VET-000034654 “Digital ​Mentoring and Traineeship”, co-financed by the Erasmus + ​program, bringing together students, teachers, mentors and ​experts from various fields of education and

industry.

The event was characterized by exchanging ideas, demonstrating ​achievements and discussions. After a ceremonial welcome and ​presentation of the project results, the participants received ​feedback from mentors and students who participated in the pilot ​testing.

A significant highlight of the event was the demonstration of the ​„DigiTrain“ portal, which allowed participants to see up close how ​the platform combines real industry projects with the learning ​process, offering a new learning and career development approach. ​A „question and answer“ session provided participants with a ​platform to discuss ideas and receive feedback, while the closing ​cocktail offered an informal setting to discuss opportunities for ​future collaboration.

Revolutionising Education: The DigiTrain Platform Pilot in Cyprus

To revolutionise education in Cyprus, the DigiTrain (Digital Mentoring and Traineeship) project, an initiative ​under the Erasmus+ programme, has been making waves.

Implemented by GrantXpert Consulting, the DigiTrain project aims to equip teachers of technical schools ​with cutting-edge teaching techniques, offering students invaluable mentorship and industry insights ​through an innovative digital platform.

The recent pilot phase of the DigiTrain platform in Cyprus has been a game-changer in Vocational ​Education and Training (VET). Engaging 11 students from two technical schools, the pilot witnessed these ​students implementing two distinct projects under the guidance of their teachers and industry mentors.

The pilot provided hands-on learning experiences to the students and shed light on the platform's ​effectiveness. Before they started, the students were trained on using the platform. Students and mentors ​worked together online during the pilot, and the projects even counted towards their grades.

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the effectiveness of the ​educational materials and platform usability!

The pilot phase of the DigiTrain platform in Cyprus signifies a significant step forward in reshaping ​education. This platform could change how students learn and prepare for their careers by combining real ​projects, mentorship, and digital learning. The proposed enhancements aim to maximise the platform's ​impact further and integrate it seamlessly into Cyprus' educational system.

In summary, if the DigiTrain platform joins Cyprus' school programme, it can potentially significantly ​change education! Thanks to all participants in the pilot phase, including teachers, mentors, and students, ​for their unwavering dedication and contribution to this transformative initiative.

• Teachers George Miltiadous and Elena Karamallaki
  
• Mentors Andreas Xenophontos and Alexandros Gerontas
  
• Students from Archbishop Makarios III VET School:
  
• Ioannis Pentontzis
  
• Marios Giorgallas
  
• Savvas Hadjiantonis
  
• Theodora Tarzan
  
• Nectarios Xenophontos
  
• Panayiota Filimonos
  
• Students from the Hospitality department of Apeitio High School – ​Agros village
  
• Alexandros Kaiafas
  
• Maria Christodoulou
  
• Ioanna Papacharalampous
  
• Andreas Panayiotou
  
• Anastasis Papagathokleous
  

By Anna Rouvi, EU Project Manager, GrantXpert Consulting Ltd

Press Release: Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide - February 2024

The Digitrain project has released four comprehensive guidebooks providing instructions on effectively ​implementing digital mentorship initiatives.

• Guidebook for Companies: Aims to enhance digital mentorship and traineeships for company leaders and ​HR.
• Guidebook for Mentors: Provides mentorship guidance for professionals and experts.
• Guidebook for VET Schools: Assists in digital mentorship implementation for school staff.
• Guidebook for VET Students: Prepares students for digital mentorship and career development.

These guidebooks deliver tailored frameworks to facilitate effective digital mentorship programs for ​vocational education.

DigiTrain featured in Croatian Media - January 2024

As project managers of DIGITRAIN, we are thrilled to announce our recent feature in Sisak.info, spotlighting our ​collaborative efforts with our esteemed partner, Ivan Trnski High School, in Hrvatska Kostajnica, Croatia. This ​coverage celebrates our strides in connecting vocational students with the business sector through ​innovative digital mentorship. Our project, aimed at bridging educational gaps and fostering real-world skills, ​exemplifies the power of partnership and technology in enhancing vocational education. We are proud of ​DIGITRAIN's impact and are grateful for the recognition and support from Sisak.info and our partners in this ​transformative journey.

Press Release: Digitrain Online Portal - November 2023

DIGITRAIN online portal – a powerful digital tool for connecting VET students with business mentors

One of the critical results of the DIGITRAIN project is the developed online portal aimed at connecting VET ​students with business mentors around Europe.

Our DIGITRAIN portal is a unique online market where all VET schools, students, companies,

and business mentors can find each other. Effective and efficient VET education can only exist

with a direct and tight connection between education and the business sector. Schools and students

need companies and mentors as partners for learning by doing and learning in a natural environment.

On the other hand, companies need access to talented, motivated students, future

workforce, and those who will help them further grow and develop their businesses.

To facilitate these partnerships and support, in particular VET schools and students from remote areas, ​DIGITRAIN partnership carefully analyzed the needs of all actors involved and, based on findings and

conclusions made, developed a unique online portal, one large multisector company with mentors

from different industry sectors and areas of operation, with whom VET students can work and learn.

VET students can register on our portal and look for business mentors with whom they would like

to work on the projects they are interested in.

Business mentors can register on our portal and look for talented young people, potential

candidates for their businesses, to whom they can offer joint work on a specific project or task.

VET teachers are also invited to register and look for potential business mentors to cooperate within

the process of education, as well as to look for ideas for projects and problems they can endorse to

students in their classes.

So far, on the DIGITRAIN portal, there are 100 VET students, 41 business mentors and 32 VET

teachers. Overall, they reflect a positive experience with the portal and feel its benefits.

DIGITRAIN partnership hopes that the portal can become a helpful tool used daily in VET education in

the future.

Press Release from the University of Oviedo - October 2023

Members of the Department of Education at the University of Oviedo are collaborating with seven other organizations across six European countries in the development of the DIGITRAIN project.

This collaborative initiative aims to create educational material that enhances digital competencies and entrepreneurship skills among vocational education and training (VET) students, preparing them for the modern digitalized workplace.

The project is supported by the Erasmus+ programme, reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in educational practices across Europe. Participants include organizations from Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Portugal, Slovenia, and Cyprus, each bringing unique expertise and perspectives to contribute to the project’s success.

For a deeper insight into the project and to access the full press release in Spanish, click here.

Mentors: Guiding the Next Generation - August 2023

Introduction for Mentors: The DIGITRAIN project aims to revolutionise how students interact with their mentors using cutting-edge digital technologies. The project will offer virtual classrooms, interactive whiteboards, chat rooms, and discussion forums to facilitate learning and promote collaboration. Moreover, the project will provide students with personalised mentorship and guidance tailored to their needs and interests. With DIGITRAIN, the possibilities for learning and growth are limitless.

Role of Mentors in the Digital Landscape: Mentors are an integral part of the DIGITRAIN project and play a vital role in guiding students towards success. These pillars of the program provide support, share their expertise, and offer invaluable insights to the students under their guidance. A mentor's role goes far beyond just teaching; they are instrumental in shaping the future of the students they work with and take on a leadership role in helping them develop into the best version of themselves. By providing a supportive and encouraging environment, mentors can help students overcome their fears and challenges and encourage them to take on new and exciting opportunities. With the help of their mentors, students can gain valuable knowledge and skills that will serve them well throughout their academic and professional careers.

Essential Skills and Attributes of Effective Digital Mentors:

• Digital solid communication skills.
  
• Patience and understanding of diverse student needs.
  
• Ability to curate and share relevant resources.
  
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated in their field.
  

Best Practices for Digital Mentorship:

• Schedule regular check-ins with students to track progress.
  
• Encourage open communication, ensuring students feel comfortable
  

sharing concerns.

• Use interactive tools to make sessions engaging.
  
• Provide constructive feedback, helping students grow and learn.
  

Students: Leveraging Digital Mentorship - July 2023

Challenges Faced by Students in Rural Areas: Rural students face various challenges that can impede their academic and professional growth. One of the main challenges is the need for more access to quality education. Compared to their urban counterparts, these students have limited opportunities to attend well-equipped schools with experienced teachers, which can lead to a significant gap in their learning outcomes. Rural students often need more mentorship opportunities to help them navigate their academic and professional paths. This is particularly important for students who are the first in their families to attend college or pursue a specific career. With proper guidance, they may be able to make informed decisions and face setbacks that could have been avoided with the proper support.

Providing more support and resources to rural students is essential to address these challenges. This can include increasing funding for schools in rural areas, providing mentorship programs, and ensuring students have access to technology and other learning tools. Additionally, efforts should be made to expose rural students to diverse career paths and provide them with opportunities to explore their interests. By doing so, we can help rural students overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.

Introduction to the DIGITRAIN Project for VET Students: DIGITRAIN offers hope, leveraging digital technology to provide unparalleled mentorship opportunities. This project ensures that geographical location is no longer a barrier to quality education.

Leveraging Digital Mentorship: Through DIGITRAIN, students can:

• Access resources and materials anytime, anywhere.
  
• Connect with mentors and peers globally.
  
• Engage in collaborative projects, discussions, and more.
  

Tips for Making the Most of Digital Mentorship:

• Be proactive in reaching out to mentors and peers.
  
• Utilise online resources to supplement learning.
  
• Engage in online community discussions to broaden perspectives.
  
• Provide regular feedback to ensure the mentorship process aligns with individual needs.
  

Teachers: Digital Facilitation - July 2023

Introduction to the DIGITRAIN Project for VET Teachers:

The DIGITRAIN project is a ground-breaking initiative that aims to revolutionise the educational sector by adapting it to the digital age. The project focuses on providing VET teachers with the necessary tools and resources to smoothly transition from traditional teaching methods to more dynamic and innovative online-based mentorship.

In today's fast-paced world, adapting to new technologies and teaching practices is essential for educators to stay relevant and practical. The DIGITRAIN project recognises this need and provides a comprehensive training program tailored to VET teachers' unique needs.

With DIGITRAIN, VET teachers will acquire new skills and knowledge and be able to implement these skills effectively in their teaching practices. By embracing this paradigm shift, VET teachers will better prepare their students for the digital age, where digital literacy and online communication are becoming increasingly important.

The DIGITRAIN project is a transformative initiative to equip VET teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to mentor their students in the digital age. With DIGITRAIN, VET teachers can keep up with the changing times and provide their students with the best possible education.

Importance of Digital Mentorship: Digital mentorship bridges the gap between urban and rural education in an increasingly connected world. VET teachers are pivotal in ensuring students receive quality education regardless of location.

Key Competencies and Skills: To thrive in this digital ecosystem, VET teachers should:

• Develop robust digital literacy skills.
  
• Engage in continuous online pedagogical training.
  
• Master online tools and platforms for effective communication and teaching.
  
• Understand the unique challenges and benefits of online mentorship.
  

Best Practices for Effective Digital Facilitation:

• Foster a vibrant online community, encouraging discussions and interactions.
  
• Use multimedia content to enhance lessons and make them more engaging.
  
• Regularly gather feedback to tailor the teaching approach.
  
• Stay updated with the latest digital tools and online teaching methodologies.
  

ESG Gondomar High School is promoting innovative learning with ProESG under the "Going Further" program in partnership with DIGITRAIN - July 2023

ESG, in the next academic year 2023/2024, has the innovation programme "Going Further" and a unique partnership with the European project DIGITRAIN, Digital Training. As part of these initiatives, the ProESG Project will be implemented, aiming to boost learning through problem-solving by students.

In the framework of the ProESG Project, students of the school's vocational courses, such as Technician of Management and Programming of Computer Systems (TGPSI), Technician of Administration (TA) and Pharmacy Auxiliary Technician (TAF), will participate in joint classes taught by the teachers of Integration Area, English and Mathematics. These classes will be dedicated to problem-solving, promoting practical and collaborative learning.

The ProESG Project will also benefit from the school's partnership with the European project DIGITRAIN. Through this collaboration, students can access an interactive learning portal to interact with experts and teachers from different countries. This platform will offer a stimulating environment to enhance students' skills and broaden their knowledge.

ESG is committed to providing an innovative and enriching education for its students. Through the ProESG Project, in the context of the "Go Further"; programme and in partnership with the European project DIGITRAIN, the school seeks to promote problem-based learning, collaboration among students and international interaction, preparing them for the challenges of the future.

DIGITRAIN Empowers Digital Education with High School of Gondomar - May 2023

The DIGITRAIN Erasmus+ Project, in collaboration with the High School of Gondomar, has successfully concluded a series of impactful meetings and training activities to empower digital education.

The project's second transnational meeting occurred from April 20 to April 21, followed by learning, teaching, and training activities from April 22 to April 26. These events brought together educators from partner institutions, fostering collaboration and driving advancements in digital education. Organized by the Association for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the meetings focused on bridging the educational divide between rural and urban areas through innovative digital mentoring. The High School of Gondomar was the local partner, contributing to the project's success. During the second transnational meeting, participants engaged in productive discussions and strategic planning sessions to work towards the goals of the DIGITRAIN Erasmus+ Project. As a result, teachers from partner countries received specialized training in digital education techniques and methodologies through learning, teaching, and training activities.

An integral part of these events was the opportunity for participants to visit the esteemed facilities of the High School of Gondomar, where they witnessed the advanced educational infrastructure and experienced the implementation of digital technologies in the learning environment firsthand. Participants could also explore Porto's enchanting city, immersing themselves in its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. This provided a well-rounded experience, blending professional development with cultural enrichment.

The collaboration between the DIGITRAIN Erasmus+ Project and the High School of Gondomar highlights the transformative potential of digital education. By equipping educators with innovative teaching practices and fostering inclusive learning environments, the project aims to empower students and bridge educational disparities.

Objectives

Partners

Digital Traineeship Methodology Development & Competence Matrix

A pan-EU survey was conducted to develop a digital traineeship methodology ​to identify good practices in this area. The survey found that the most ​effective digital traineeships include a competent mentor in the company and ​a skilled teacher in the school. The survey identified several competencies ​that are essential for teachers and mentors alike. These competencies include ​problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and digital literacy.

Click here for:

• Digital Traineeship Methodology
  
• Competence Matrix
  

Development of Educational Content

The development of educational content is crucial to ensure that students ​receive the best possible education. The process should involve meetings ​with experts to finalize the curriculum and the development of teacher training ​programmes. In addition, students' lessons and mentor training programmes ​should be based on the prepared curriculum. Pilot testing the developed ​methodology is also essential to gather feedback from students and mentors. ​Based on this feedback, the educational content can be improved.

Click here for: Digitrain Educational Content

Guidebooks & Online Resource Development

To provide the best possible experience for both mentors and mentees, it is ​essential to have a well-organized plan to develop online resources. The ​guidebook will be a resource for educational providers and companies ​interested in providing digital traineeships. It outlines the steps necessary to ​find mentor companies, organize the traineeship, monitor its progress, and ​provide certificates of completion. It also explains the benefits of digital ​traineeships for companies, including talent searching, idea development, and ​broadcasting. Finally, it guides mentors on effectively mentoring their mentees ​using digital resources.

Click here for: Guidebooks

Online Digital Mentorship, Traineeship and Talent Searching Portal

The project aims to create an online digital mentorship, traineeship and talent-​searching portal. This portal will be a resource for individuals seeking ​mentorship and traineeship opportunities. The target audience for this project ​includes VET students in need of mentors to pursue their education and ca​reers. The team will prepare design and development mock-ups. The portal w​ill be developed using open-source software and hosted on a web server. T​he portal will be accessible to users worldwide.

C​lick here for: Online Portal

Contact

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.